As a Christian Science nurse actively involved in various communities, I am grateful for the By-Law in the Manual of The Mother Church by Mrs. Eddy making provision for this service. This By-Law requires: "A member of The Mother Church who represents himself or herself as a Christian Science nurse shall be one who has a demonstrable knowledge of Christian Science practice, who thoroughly understands the practical wisdom necessary in a sick room, and who can take proper care of the sick."Man., Art. VIII, Sect. 31;
Whatever our human occupation or capacity—be it homemaker, office worker, laborer, teacher, or business executive— we all have a higher contribution to offer over and above the responsibilities of our employment. If we endeavor to hold our thoughts and acts in line with Christliness, our thought is opened to divine ideas, and through this guidance we can become actively involved in the prevention and solution of problems.
It is not surprising, then, that the first requirement of the Christian Science nurse is to have "a demonstrable knowledge of Christian Science practice." While it is the practitioner who treats the patient, and the nurse who cares for his physical comfort, can nurses be absolved from all metaphysical responsibility? No, because they are not contending merely with a physical condition. They are essentially facing false mental concepts pictured on the body. Thought in and around the case is really what they are dealing with. Christian Science nursing complements, but does not conflict with, the work of the practitioner. Nurses therefore maintain close contact with the practitioner and keep faithful vigil over the patient's progress, always encouraging steps toward normalcy.
